Your Engagement Ring Shopping Handbook Checklist

The Do’s and Don’ts when shopping for your engagement ring and wedding bands

It can be the most stressful part of popping the question: finding the perfect ring that says it all, and will stand the test of time. An engagement ring is more than a gift, it's a symbol of your relationship, and shows that you love her (or him!*), you're willing to invest in her, and you really understand her style and what makes her happy. Sound a little daunting? We’ve got you covered. Here’s your shopping guide for “putting a ring on it”:

DO

-Do Have a maximum budget in mind. Know what you can spend, and don't forget about sales tax.

-Do Be a detective. Ask her friends, family, whoever knows her best what they think her ring style is. See if she has a Pinterest page with any ring pins (she might have already done your homework for you!).

-Do Take her ring shopping. No matter what, says Lauren Tesauro of Chapel Hills Jewelry, she'll be surprised. “A lot of people think, 'I have to surprise her.' Don't worry about that. I think it's a big DO to bring her in and see what catches her eye!”

-Do -Consider custom design. If your girlfriend has a vision for her ring, she may be a good candidate for custom design. You can sit down with a designer at Chapel Hills Jewelry who will take your ideas and expertly craft them into a one-of-a-kind heirloom, worthy of being on her finger for the rest of her life.

Don't

Don't- Buy what you love. Buy what he or she loves. Remember, you're not the one who will be wearing the ring every day.

Don't- Bring the whole family. Of course the mom, the sister, the third cousin would all love to go ring shopping, but this is not a decision to be made by a committee. Too many voices just confuse things.Bring one person whom you trust the most.

Don't- Wait. Keep in mind, having something custom designed, or even special ordered, takes a few weeks or more. Yes, you might fall in love with something the jeweler has in stock, but give yourself the option to tweak a couple things about a ring you see. Be safe and don't wait until days before you plan to propose. Regardless, the jewelers at Chapel Hills Jewelry say they can help. “Come in when you're ready!”

*Engagement rings are not just for women. Keep an eye out for future blog posts about popping the question to Mr. Right.